addition: i dont make hiphop but i also have a similar setup where i have an NI maschine as an VST inside cubase and i sequence 3 external synths with it while also using it as a groovebox and export its audio as a 7-track multitrack. (group 8 is already in use as my sqeuencing group for all external gear)

for me: combining the worlds is where the magic emerges. limiting yourself can also very inspiring but i am a "i want the best tool for the job" guy so i very much love combining a lot of worlds and dimensions to a nice new monster ;)